A review by sarahasyouwish
Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam

challenging dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

If you like your thrillers with a more literary bend or you regularly read literary fiction but want something with a bit more tension, than this could be a great pick for you. Alam does an amazing job of maintaining a looming sense of dread throughout this apocalyptic novel. The book certainly had me on the edge of my seat with anticipation as to what was happening and how it would all unfold. This constant threat of a looming disaster is heightened by the tensions of racism and classism that are examined as themes in this book. If you’re not ok with open-endings and unanswered questions, then you might want to skip this one. I thought the ending was in keeping with the rest of the story and only added to the sense of unease. 
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